Supervisors approve Big Bear Alpine Zoo relocation

The Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to move the Big Bear Alpine Zoo to a more spacious 5-acre site.

The zoo currently operates on a leased 2.5 acre site in the City of Big Bear Lake. The lease agreement at that site expired in February 2009 and operation of the facility has continued on a month-to-month basis. Following a lengthy planning process, the Board approved the relocation to 3/4 of a mile north of the existing facility at the intersection of Moonridge Road and Club View Road.

The relocation of the zoo will enhance the facility’s image and visibility, upgrade the animal care facilities, and provide an educational and entertaining environment for visitors. About 160 animals and a total of 64 species will be relocated. The project also includes the demolition and remediation of the existing zoo property after the new facility is constructed.